Tag: PR Newswire

DETROIT, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Inspire Autism, a growing provider of evidence-based therapy for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, announces the appointment of Kristin M. Hustyi, MA, BCBA, as its new Chief Clinical Officer. This strategic addition highlights Inspire Autism’s commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes to families across Metro Detroit.

Kristin Hustyi brings over 15 years of experience in behavior analysis, clinical innovation, and research leadership to Inspire Autism. She holds a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of the Pacific and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Michigan University.

Previously, Hustyi served as Vice President of Research at LittleStar ABA Therapy and National Director of Outcomes at Invo Healthcare. She currently serves as an Adjunct Lecturer at Stanford University School of Medicine. Her clinical work is backed by more than 20 peer-reviewed publications and over 50 national presentations, positioning her as a leading voice in the field.

“Inspire Autism has always been dedicated to building a team that delivers high-quality, compassionate, and results-driven care,” said Brandon Boudreau, CEO of Inspire Autism. “Kristin’s appointment underscores that mission. Her unique blend of clinical experience, research excellence, and thought leadership will be instrumental in elevating the standard of care we offer families.”

Hustyi will lead Inspire Autism’s clinical vision, ensuring the delivery of data-driven therapy rooted in the latest advancements in the field. She will focus on client outcomes, clinician mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration with diagnostic professionals and pediatricians throughout Southeast Michigan.

“I’m honored to join Inspire Autism at such a pivotal moment in its growth,” said Hustyi. “This organization is deeply committed to families, and I look forward to expanding access to individualized services that change lives.”

Inspire Autism provides early intervention services including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy to children across the autism spectrum. With Kristin Hustyi at the clinical helm, Inspire Autism aims to expand its regional impact and strengthen partnerships with pediatric providers, diagnostic centers, and local communities.

About Inspire Autism
Inspire Autism is an autism spectrum disorder therapy provider specializing in comprehensive services for children. The organization focuses on data-informed outcomes to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Contact:
Inspire Autism
info@inspireautism.com 
(844) -427-7700
inspireautism.com

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SOURCE INSPIRE AUTISM LLC

BOGOTA, Colombia, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ecopetrol S.A. (BVC: ECOPETROL; NYSE: EC, the “Company”) informs that S&P Global Ratings maintained the Company’s global credit rating at BB+ as well as its negative outlook, as reported today, June 4, 2025. Additionally, the agency lowered the Company’s Stand Alone Credit Profile (SACP) rating from bbb- to bb+.

S&P mentioned that lower oil prices and exchange rate volatility have impacted the Company’s financial performance during the last year, and it estimated that Ecopetrol’s debt/EBITDA ratio would remain at a level above 2.0.

The rating agency positively highlighted the Company’s strategy, focused on growth prospects, reserve replenishment, and strengthening of the investment portfolio through business diversification and profitability margins.

The assessment of the aforementioned factors, as well as other considerations included in the report supported an individual rating that is at the same level of the Company’s overall rating.

The full report issued by S&P, including the detailed rating rationale, can be found below:

Ecopetrol is the largest company in Colombia and one of the main integrated energy companies in the American continent, with more than 19,000 employees. In Colombia, it is responsible for more than 60% of the hydrocarbon production of most transportation, logistics, and hydrocarbon refining systems, and it holds leading positions in the petrochemicals and gas distribution segments. With the acquisition of 51.4% of ISA’s shares, the company participates in energy transmission, the management of real-time systems (XM), and the Barranquilla – Cartagena coastal highway concession. At the international level, Ecopetrol has a stake in strategic basins in the American continent, with Drilling and Exploration operations in the United States (Permian basin and the Gulf of Mexico), Brazil, and Mexico, and, through ISA and its subsidiaries, Ecopetrol holds leading positions in the power transmission business in Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Bolivia, road concessions in Chile, and the telecommunications sector. 

This release contains statements that may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements, whether made in this release or in future filings or press releases, or orally, address matters that involve risks and uncertainties, including in respect of the Company’s prospects for growth and its ongoing access to capital to fund the Company’s business plan, among others. Consequently, changes in the following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements: market prices of oil & gas, our exploration, and production activities, market conditions, applicable regulations, the exchange rate, the Company’s competitiveness and the performance of Colombia’s economy and industry, to mention a few. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements. 

For more information, please contact: 

Head of Capital Markets 
Carolina Tovar Aragón 
Email: investors@ecopetrol.com.co 

Head of Corporate Communications (Colombia) 
Marcela Ulloa 
Email: marcela.ulloa@ecopetrol.com.co

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SOURCE Ecopetrol S.A.

NEW YORK and NOIDA, India, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HCLTech (NSE: HCLTECH.NS) (BSE: HCLTECH.BO), a leading global technology company, announced Osa Conservation as the winner and Daily Acts and Ocean Wise as the two runners-up of the second edition of the HCLTech Climate Action Grant in the Americas. The three non-government organizations (NGOs) will be awarded a total of $1 million to help build scalable, sustainable solutions to drive climate action across the Americas.  

In the second year, applications increased by more than 70%, and after several rounds of review and rigorous due diligence, HCLTech selected Osa Conservation to receive $500,000 and Daily Acts and Ocean Wise to receive $250,000 each. This year’s registrations increased by 34% from the 10 eligible countries across the Americas, including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Peru and the U.S.

Osa Conservation, based in Costa Rica, will focus its grant award on Climate Lifeboat corridors, which help species migrate and thrive amid climate change. By reconnecting fragmented tropical habitats, the project supports climate adaptation while safeguarding ecosystems across millions of acres.

California-based Daily Acts will use its grant for its community-powered climate resilience initiative. The project blends government strategy with grassroots action to advance water management, stormwater mitigation and social infrastructure across neighborhoods in Petaluma, Calif. and beyond.

Canada-based Ocean Wise will dedicate its grant to its kelp forest restoration project on the Pacific coast. By managing urchin overpopulation and combining advanced technology and ecological research, the project aims to strengthen marine biodiversity and support coastal communities.

“We are excited to support this year’s recipients of the HCLTech Grant Americas as they expand their innovative projects to reconnect natural habitats, boost community resilience and rejuvenate marine ecosystems across the Americas,” said Dr. Nidhi Pundhir, Senior Vice President, Global CSR, HCLTech. “This year, we saw a substantial increase in applications, highlighting the urgency of mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and the importance of supporting initiatives that pave the way for a sustainable future.”

In its inaugural year in 2023, HCLTech Climate Action Grant in the Americas committed $5 million in grants over five years to support sustainable solutions to fight the climate crisis across the Americas. The Grant in the Americas builds on HCLTech and the HCLFoundation (HCLTech’s CSR arm) focus on continuous global sustainability commitment with a total investment of over $175 million in CSR programs to date.

HCLTech is consistently recognized for its commitment to making a positive difference in the environment. Through our technology and collective expertise, HCLTech was recognized as an Industry Mover by S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2023 for sustainable business practices and continues to partner with leading U.S.-based organizations, including Feeding America and Girl Up, to serve the broader community. 

For more information on HCLTech Climate Action Grant in the Americas, its mission and the application process, please visit americas-grant.hcltech.com.

About HCLTech

HCLTech is a global technology company, home to more than 223,000 people across 60 countries, delivering industry-leading capabilities centered around digital, engineering, cloud and AI, powered by a broad portfolio of technology services and products. We work with clients across all major verticals, providing industry solutions for Financial Services, Manufacturing, Life Sciences and Healthcare, High Tech, Semiconductor, Telecom and Media, Retail and CPG and Public Services. Consolidated revenues as of 12 months ending March 2025 totaled $13.8 billion. To learn how we can supercharge progress for you, visit hcltech.com.

For further details, please contact:

Meredith Bucaro, Americas
meredith-bucaro@hcltech.com

Elka Ghudial, EMEA
elka.ghudial@hcltech.com

James Galvin, APAC
james.galvin@hcltech.com

Nitin Shukla, India
nitin-shukla@hcltech.com

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2648325/5355481/HCLTech_Logo.jpg

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SOURCE HCLTech

Nonprofit health plan recognized for its commitment to “Stand for What’s Right” for third consecutive year.

OAKLAND, Calif., June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Blue Shield of California has been named a 2025 honoree of The Civic 50 by Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteering. For more than a decade, The Civic 50 award has served as the national standard for corporate citizenship and showcases how leading companies are moving social impact and community to the core of their business.

“Living our mission and building a healthier California requires us to be present in our communities and show up as a positive force,” said Mike Stuart, interim president and CEO, Blue Shield of California. “This recognition is a testament to the passion and commitment of our employees and how we come together to make a positive difference for our members, communities and planet. We are very proud to be recognized again by The Civic 50 for our strong culture of philanthropy and our dedication to living out our mission.”

The Civic 50 honorees are top community-minded companies in the United States with annual revenues of at least $1 billion. Honorees are selected through an annual survey that evaluates the scale, sophistication and impact of their employee volunteering, community engagement and corporate philanthropy work.

Blue Shield is one of California’s largest health plans with more than 7,500 employees, serving 6 million members. Blue Shield is a nonprofit health plan that voluntarily caps its income at 2% of revenue, returning the difference back to customers and California communities.

“In an ever-evolving landscape, companies are looking to ensure that they can meet the needs of their communities, customers and stakeholders,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, Points of Light. “Companies like Blue Shield of California are leading the way in showing how social impact benefits their employees’ well-being, strengthens the communities where they do business, and brings value and meaning to their work. Their efforts provide a model for others looking to bring the benefits of volunteering and social impact to their workforce and they’re extremely deserving of this recognition.”

An honoree in 2021, 2023 and 2024, Blue Shield was recognized this year for a variety of programs including:

Record-breaking employee volunteerism and giving
Nearly every employee (99%) gave back in 2024, volunteering more than 68,000 hours and donating over $1.6 million (including company match) to more than 2,600 nonprofit organizations. The company facilitated more than 375 volunteer events, ranging from home repairs and tree plantings, to fundraising for therapy animal programs and diabetes prevention.

Investing in communities
In 2024, the health plan contributed $20 million to its Blue Shield of California Foundation, which supported 99 grants to organizations that are working to make California the healthiest state and end domestic violence. In addition, Blue Shield invested $7.2 million in California nonprofits that are advancing mental health, environmental sustainability and the future healthcare workforce.

Expanding access to youth mental health support
BlueSky, Blue Shield’s youth mental health initiative, celebrated its 5-year anniversary last year.  The initiative invests in best-in-class nonprofit organizations and programs that promote emotional well-being for young people across California. To date, BlueSky has supported over 20,000 youth and educators through therapy, training and youth advocacy programs.

Driving environmental action
Blue Shield is leading the health plan industry in addressing the intersection of climate and health. Committed to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), Blue Shield has also expanded efforts to address emissions across its supply chain. At the same time, Blue Shield continued to invest in nonprofit groups focused on environmental justice, while empowering employees and members to take part in sustainability efforts. In 2024, 71% of eligible members chose paperless communications, saving the equivalent of over 20,000 trees annually.

The Civic 50 survey is administered by True Impact, and the results are analyzed by VeraWorks. The survey instrument consists of quantitative and multiple-choice questions that inform the scoring process. The Civic 50 is the only survey and ranking system that exclusively measures corporate community engagement.

For more on The Civic 50, visit pointsoflight.org/the-civic-50/

Read more about Blue Shield of California’s citizenship efforts at citizenship.blueshieldca.com or visit the “Standing for What’s Right” section of our 2024 Mission Report.

About Blue Shield of California
Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. The health plan is a tax paying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Shield Association with nearly 6 million members, over 7,500 employees and more than $25 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $60 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation in the last three years to have an impact on California communities.

For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com. Or follow us on LinkedIn or Facebook.

About Points of Light
Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips, and mobilizes millions of people to take action that creates a positive impact through volunteering and civic engagement. Through partnerships with nonprofits, companies and social impact leaders, the organization galvanizes volunteers to meet critical needs for healthier and more resilient communities. As the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service, Points of Light engages more than 3.8 million volunteers across 32 countries. For more information, visit www.pointsoflight.org.

CONTACT: Mark Seelig
Blue Shield of California 
510-607-2359
media@blueshieldca.com 

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SOURCE Blue Shield of California

• Hyundai donates $100,000 to support CHOC’s greatest needs
• Hyundai Hope on Wheels presents a $100,000 Impact Grant for pediatric cancer research and support

ORANGE, Calif., June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai recently announced a $200,000 commitment to longstanding partner, Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), part of Rady Children’s Health, to support pediatric health in Southern California. Hyundai Hope, the corporate social responsibility initiative of Hyundai Motor America, donated $100,000 to support CHOC’s greatest needs. Hyundai Hope on Wheels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to ending childhood cancer, donated $100,000 to pediatric cancer research and support. To date, Hyundai and Hyundai Hope on Wheels have cumulatively contributed $12.9 million to CHOC, including Hyundai’s original $10 million investment in 2011 with the establishment of the Hyundai Cancer Institute at CHOC. Ceremonial checks were presented at CHOC’s new nine-story outpatient tower in Orange, California.

“At Hyundai, we are proud to support impactful institutions that are working towards the betterment of children’s health,” said Claudia Márquez, COO, Hyundai Motor America. “CHOC continues to be an instrumental force in the community, serving families and delivering the highest quality of health care. With the donation from Hyundai and Hyundai Hope on Wheels, we seek to continue supporting its work helping more children to live healthy, happy lives.”

Hyundai Hope on Wheels presented a $100,000 Impact Grant to CHOC that will be used for pediatric cancer research and programmatic support for the Hyundai Cancer Institute.

“Our partnership with Hyundai is instrumental in helping us become the premier destination for pediatric oncology by enabling groundbreaking research and clinical excellence,” said Dr. Lilibeth Torno, M.D. Ph.D., medical director, Hyundai Cancer Institute at CHOC. “Their commitment has fostered an environment where collaboration and discovery thrive, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of innovation. Together, we are transforming the landscape of cancer care for children and their families.”

Over the last 27 years, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has grown to be a leading funder of pediatric cancer research in the country. The grant is part of the foundation’s commitment of $27 million this year, which brings the lifetime donation total to $277 million dollars to advance research, support families, and stand alongside doctors and children in the fight against childhood cancer. Throughout the rest of this year, the organization will present similar grants that fund lifesaving research and bring hope to communities.

The event concluded with a Handprint Ceremony, the signature event of Hyundai Hope on Wheels. During the ceremony, children affected by cancer, doctors, researchers, partners, and Hyundai representatives placed their handprints on a Hyundai vehicle, symbolizing the collective fight against pediatric cancer and hope for a cure.

Hyundai also provided a 2025 Hyundai Palisade to CHOC that will help transport families around CHOC’s Orange campus as well as deliver medications to immune-compromised patients. The vehicle will provide overall support to a vulnerable patient community reliant on access to life-saving medications.

Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC)

Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), part of Rady Children’s Health, is committed to being a leading destination for children’s health by providing exceptional and innovative care. The nationally recognized pediatric healthcare system includes two hospitals and a regional network of primary and specialty care clinics. CHOC offers several programs of excellence providing the highest levels of care for the most serious pediatric illnesses and injuries, physical and mental. CHOC’s research and innovation institutes are focused on translating real patient needs into real-world treatments so every child can live the healthiest and happiest life possible. Learn more at choc.org

Hyundai Hope

Hyundai Hope is a corporate social responsibility initiative from Hyundai Motor North America, committed to the principle of Progress for Humanity and the goal of improving the wellbeing of society. Hyundai Hope dedicates time and supplies resources to nonprofit organizations that support the health and safety of individuals and foster positive growth in communities. For more information, visit www.HyundaiHope.com.

Hyundai Hope on Wheels

Hyundai Hope on Wheels® is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is committed to finding a cure for childhood cancer. Launched in 1998, Hyundai Hope on Wheels provides grants to eligible institutions nationwide that are pursuing critical research aimed at improving treatments and saving lives. Hyundai Hope on Wheels is one of the largest nonprofit funders of pediatric cancer research in the country. Primary funding for Hyundai Hope on Wheels comes from Hyundai Motor America and its more than 850 U.S. dealers. In 2025, Hyundai Hope on Wheels will reach a lifetime donation total of $277 million in support of more than 1,400 childhood cancer research grants to over 175 hospitals and research institutions.

Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company’s Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, and several cutting-edge R&D facilities. These operations, combined with those of Hyundai’s 850 independent dealers, contribute $20.1 billion annually and 190,000 jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a published economic impact report. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com.

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

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SOURCE Hyundai Motor America

JACKSON, Mich., June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Consumers Energy and ESPEC North America, Inc. announced a partnership to power the West Michigan based environmental and reliability testing equipment manufacturing company with clean energy and bring new renewable energy into Michigan’s electric grid.

Under Consumers Energy’s Renewable Energy Program, major electricity accounts at ESPEC North America will source renewable energy from new Consumers Energy Michigan-based wind and solar projects beginning in 2028. ESPEC North America can also claim the Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) tied to the projects, further reducing the company’s carbon footprint and advancing its commitment that innovation and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand.

“We commend ESPEC North America for making the commitment to match 100% of the energy it uses with renewable energy from Consumers Energy,” said Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy’s senior vice president, chief customer and growth officer. “Together, we’re making a meaningful impact in adding flexible generation sources to Michigan’s grid while fostering economic growth and creating jobs.”

Joining the Renewable Energy Program, ESPEC North America says is essential not only for protecting our planet for future generations but also for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industries it serves, helping the company strengthen its ability to innovate responsibly, reduce its environmental footprint, and align with the global Environmental Vision 2050 of its parent company, ESPEC Corp.

“At ESPEC North America, we are committed to doing our part to advance environmental sustainability through meaningful action. We are unique in our contribution to the global clean energy push as we have numerous partners whom we serve in their endeavors to develop new and innovative renewable energy solutions,” said Luke Polega, President, ESPEC North America. “Partnering with Consumers Energy allows us to invest in some of those solutions and begin to see results that have a real impact on our environment.”

In total, the over 50 businesses that Consumers Energy serves have committed to over 700 megawatts of emission-free renewable energy supporting their sustainability goals. That’s enough generation to power approximately 84,000 homes each year and equivalent to removing greenhouse gas emissions produced from over 190,500 cars on the road annually from the environment, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency calculations.

ESPEC North America joins notable Michigan program participants, including General Motors, Interlochen Center for the Arts, and the cities of Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, among others, in accelerating the development of green energy infrastructure. 

Consumers Energy’s Renewable Energy Program offers a local, cost-effective, flexible, and turnkey solution for businesses looking to align with sustainability goals while supporting the planet for future generations. Enrollment not only advances greening Michigan’s grid but also supports Michigan jobs created through building and operating renewable energy projects.

Learn more by contacting RenewableProgram@ConsumersEnergy.com. 

Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

For more information about Consumers Energy, go to ConsumersEnergy.com.
Check out Consumers Energy on Social Media 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consumersenergymichigan
Twitter: https://twitter.com/consumersenergy
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/consumersenergy  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consumersenergy 

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SOURCE Consumers Energy

2025 Report Highlights 62% of Female Users Rediscover Confidence, with Matching Efficiency 40x Higher Than Traditional Platforms

WASHINGTON, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CougarD, a leading intergenerational social platform, today released its 2025 Mature Women’s Social Empowerment Report, uncovering how the platform is empowering mature women to reimagine their social connections and emotional well-being in today’s digital era. As global internet usage among women aged 50+ grows at 28% annually, CougarD pioneers a niche where life experience isn’t just valued—it’s the currency of connection, challenging ageist norms in digital dating. Key findings include a 75% Q1 increase in female VIP memberships and a 47% surge in high-income women (earning $300K+ annually), with 69% holding executive or entrepreneurial roles.

I. Mature Women’s Self-Discovery: Insights from User Feedback

Data from CougarD‘s annual user survey reveals a powerful narrative of self-empowerment among mature women. When asked about their experience on the platform, respondents highlighted:

* 62% reported feeling “a renewed sense of confidence, comparable to their younger years,” with many citing the platform’s focus on intellectual compatibility and life experience.

* 73% identified “professional expertise and life wisdom” as their most attractive qualities to others, shifting the focus from age to personal growth.

Representative Feedback from Surveys:

* “For the first time, I’m being seen for my career achievements and the stories I’ve lived, not just my age,” shared a 52-year-old financial industry user from Los Angeles.

* A 58-year-old entrepreneur from Chicago noted, “The connections I’ve made here are rooted in mutual respect. We discuss business strategies, life transitions, and what it means to thrive at any age.”

II. Cultural Shift: Redefining Attraction in the Digital Age

The report aligns with broader sociological trends, as 68% of mature women on CougarD opt to highlight professional achievements, philanthropic endeavors, or creative pursuits in their profiles, versus traditional dating platforms’ focus on physical appearance. As one survey respondent noted, “I’m not here to fit a stereotype—I’m here to connect with people who see the depth of who I am.”

III. Technology Redefining Connection: Quality Over Quantity

CougarD’s proprietary Wisdom Resonance Algorithm™ analyzes 300+ dimensions—including values, life stages, and interests—to deliver meaningful matches. With an 89% accuracy rate, the platform achieves a first-match success rate 35% higher than industry averages.

Key Metrics:

* Matching Efficiency: Users find 8 compatible profiles per 10 swipes, compared to just 2 per 100 swipes on traditional platforms.

* High-Value Community: Of the $300K+ female users, 69% hold leadership positions in finance, tech, and entrepreneurship.

Male User Perspectives:

* “Dating a mature woman on CougarD means having conversations that challenge my thinking. When she dissected my startup’s revenue model, I knew I’d found someone who matches my ambition,” shared a 32-year-old tech founder from New York City.

* A 29-year-old financial analyst from San Francisco noted, “I used to waste hours swiping on apps with little result. On CougarD, 8 out of 10 profiles intrigue me. It’s efficient, authentic, and refreshing.”

IV. Safety and Empowerment: A Female-Centric Ecosystem

CougarD prioritizes user safety and agency through:

1. Triple Verification: All female profiles undergo rigorous real-time video verification, manual review, and IP checks to ensure authenticity.

2. Female-Initiated Model: Features like “Wink Message” require female consent before messages can be sent, putting women in control of interactions.

3. Community-Driven Growth: “Hot Moments” has connected over 5,000 young professionals with mature female leaders, fostering experience-sharing and emotional engagement.

Surveys show 89% of female users appreciate the platform’s safety features, with one respondent stating, “The triple verification gives me peace of mind, and the ability to control when I start a conversation is a game-changer.” Another highlighted, “The ‘Moments’ feature lets me share my journey authentically, and the responses from younger users remind me how valuable my perspective is.”

V. Join the Movement: Where Experience Meets Authenticity

For mature women ready to embrace their power and young men seeking meaningful connections, CougarD offers a vision of dating beyond age stereotypes.

To Mature Women:

“Your story deserves to be heard. Join CougarD and step into a community where your wisdom is your greatest asset.”

To Young Men:

“Tired of superficial swiping? Discover 8 quality matches in 10 swipes—women who inspire, challenge, and grow with you.”

About CougarD

As a pioneering global social platform, CougarD sparks meaningful connections between mature women and younger men, fostering authentic relationships rooted in mutual curiosity and shared life goals. Through advanced algorithms, safety-first features, and community-driven initiatives, the platform empowers users to build relationships rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose. Visit https://www.cougard.net/ to learn more.

Note: All user quotes are anonymized and derived from CougarD’s 2025 user survey, which polled 10,000+ platform users. Data reflects responses from verified female users aged 50+.

 

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SOURCE CougarD

BEIJING, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from China.org.cn on China’s cause of environmental protection:

Recently, flowers have begun to bloom in China’s Taklimakan Desert, once known as the “Sea of Death”.

In full bloom were the 100,000 rose saplings planted last November in the final stretch of the Taklimakan “enclosure” project. Though delicate in appearance and swaying in the fierce desert winds, the roses turned out to be a highly drought-tolerant and adaptive variety. They were bred and grafted for these extreme conditions, deeply anchoring their roots beneath the sands and helping to stabilize and bind the shifting soil.

A 3,046-kilometer “green scarf” now encircles the shifting sea of sand, while the rose blossoms have added a touch of romance to it.

Comparing satellite images from 2014 and 2024, the difference is striking: growing expanses of greenery are now lighting up the once dull yellow desert. By the end of 2024, more than 17.25 million mu (1.15 million hectares) of man-made forest have been added in China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, consisting of 2 billion trees planted by hand. If the trees were planted at one-meter intervals, they could encircle the earth nearly 50 times. Statistics also show that China has effectively rehabilitated 53% of its reclaimable desertified land.

The success of China’s desertification governance is not only evident in the greening of the sands and the reduction of sand storms; it is also benefiting local livelihoods. For example, in Yutian County, where desert roses are widely planted, a diversified and integrated industry has materialized: More than 30 types of rose-based products, including rose hydrosol, rose tea, and rose-infused cosmetics enjoy a vast domestic market; the industry has created a wealth of jobs, while local tourism is also thriving — after all, blooming roses in a desert is a must-see wonder for tourists.

By virtue of the unique desert climate, green energy is now being steadily generated. The process begins with straw checkerboard grids being laid to “contain” the shifting sands. Then, photovoltaic panels are installed in precise angles, forming upright “sand barriers” that also allow them to generate clean energy while shading the plants growing beneath. The water used to clean the panel components is also repurposed for irrigation to sustain patches of greenery. Such model of “clean power generation above and sand stabilization underneath” has been commended by the UNEP as “an innovative solution”.

Today, China’s philosophy and practices in ecological protection are profoundly influencing the rest of the world. In the recent two decades, China contributed more than a quarter of the world’s new afforestation area, ranking first globally. China also leads the world in plastic waste recycling. Under the South-South cooperation framework, China has actively supported biodiversity protection efforts in developing nations, bringing positive changes to more than 80 countries…

A sound ecosystem is essential for the prosperity of civilization. As we mark the 54th World Environment Day today, the planet continues to be jeopardized by multiple environmental crises, and the road to protection remains long and challenging. We hope more and more people will join the cause of environmental protection, and commit to doing their bit to build harmony between humanity and nature.

China Mosaic 
http://www.china.org.cn/video/node_7230027.htm
Planting Roses in China’s Desert: Romance and Beyond
http://www.china.org.cn/video/2025-06/05/content_117912475.shtml 

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SOURCE China.org.cn

Watches Made from Recycled Ocean-Bound Plastics are Part of #Tide Sustainable Ocean Plastics Collection 

NEW YORK, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Armitron (https://www.armitron.com/), the American legacy watchmaker celebrating its 50th anniversary, advances its sustainability mission through an ongoing partnership with the Wildlife Conservation Society (https://www.wcs.org/). For the third time since 2023, Armitron has collaborated with #tide Ocean Material SA (https://www.tide.earth/en/) to craft its eco-conscious Wave watches from recycled ocean-bound plastic. As part of the brand’s Ocean Plastics Collection, the latest releases introduce new colorways in Pink/Blue and Black/Blue, priced at $95 each, and are available exclusively on Armitron.com starting June 5, 2025.

As a proud supporter of the Wildlife Conservation Society, Armitron is donating $30,000 to further its global mission to protect wildlife and wild places. The partnership also advocates for the designation of Hudson Canyon, the largest submarine canyon on the U.S. Atlantic Coast, as a National Marine Sanctuary.

“Our collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society and #tide represents a defining step in Armitron’s journey toward greater environmental responsibility,” says Bobbie Weichselbaum, CEO of E. Gluck Corporation. “By integrating socially responsible materials into our designs, we’re shaping a future rooted in sustainability and purpose.”

#Tide is an environmental company transforming ocean-bound plastic into premium raw materials for sustainable products. #Tide Ocean Material® is used in a wide range of durable goods from furniture to construction materials. In 2025, the #tide program aims to collect and upcycle the equivalent of one billion plastic bottles into reusable, high-quality materials.

Armitron’s Wave Watches are made from plastic collected in the U.S. and along the coastlines of Southeast Asia:

Wave ($95) — Crafted from recycled ocean-bound plastic in partnership with Tide Ocean SA, Wave watches showcase a commitment to style and sustainability. Originally launched in 2023, its third release debuts June 5 with bold new colorways, including pink with a black case and blue with a black case.

“Partnering again with Armitron reflects our shared vision for a more sustainable planet,” says John Calvelli, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs at the Wildlife Conservation Society. “We applaud Armitron’s mission of reducing plastic pollution and protecting our life-sustaining ecosystems. Together, we are turning awareness into action, and with every Armitron watch, we’re not only keeping time, but a promise to our oceans and the species that depend on them.”

For more information on Armitron, the Ocean Plastics Collection, and their partnership with #tide and the Wildlife Conservation Society, contact BPM-PR Firm at info@bpm-prfirm.com or call 1.877.841.7244.

About Armitron®
Since 1975, Armitron® has been devoted to nurturing the spirit of individuality with high-quality, high-style watches at accessible price points, driven by the understanding that a timepiece is both a common thread and a distinguishing factor. As a brand underneath the E. Gluck Corporation umbrella, Armitron® connects prestige and curation with unprecedented value and convenience. E. Gluck Corporation manufactures watches under its flagship proprietary brand, Armitron. The company also manufactures watches for major fashion brands, including Anne Klein, Nine West, Juicy Couture, Vince Camuto, and Steve Madden. Proudly headquartered in New York, Armitron is an Official Timepiece of the New York Yankees. For more information, visit www.Armitron.com.

About The Wildlife Conservation Society
Founded in 1895 as the New York Zoological Society, the Wildlife Conservation Society is one of the first conservation organizations in the United States. The Society began with a clear mandate: to advance wildlife conservation, promote the study of zoology, and establish a first-class zoo. In fact, the Society has five: the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, and New York Aquarium. WCS’s staff of field and zoo experts work together in the service of a single mission: to save wildlife and wild places. As their vets, curators, and keepers care for the animals in the four zoos and aquarium in New York, they share their insights with scientists working in the field to save wildlife. Field staff report back their observations of animal behavior and needs in the wild, which in turn bolsters animal well-being in the parks. https://www.wcs.org/

About #tide®
Tide Ocean SA is a Swiss company with subsidiaries in Southeast Asia that has developed upcycling methods for ocean-bound plastics in collaboration with the Swiss Institute for Materials Engineering and Plastics Processing (IWK, OST). In addition to environmental protection, #tide also creates social value: from fishermen to retailers, everyone benefits from the company’s values. The granulates, threads, and filaments made from Tide Ocean materials are used in a wide variety of products and have been awarded several times. With its program «Road to 1 Billion Bottles», #tide® has set the goal of collecting and upcycling the equivalent of one billion plastic bottles by 2025, and thus protecting the fauna and flora in and around the oceans. www.tide.earth

Contact:
Matthew Ambrose
396264@email4pr.com
BPM-PR Firm
877.841.7244

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SOURCE Armitron

VANCOUVER, BC, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Ballard Power Systems (NASDAQ: BLDP) (TSX: BLDP) today announced the signing of a new supply agreement with California-based rail operator Sierra Northern Railway (https://www.sierranorthern.com) for the supply of 1.5 MW of fuel cell engines, expected to be delivered in 2025.

As part of Sierra Northern Railway’s efforts to decarbonize its operations across California, 12 Ballard FCmove^®-XD engines will be supplied to convert three diesel switching locomotives to hydrogen-fueled, zero-emission locomotives. The FCmove^®-XD modules are specifically designed for heavy-duty applications, offering high reliability, durability, efficiency and power density, and provide the benefits of zero emissions without the need for costly overhead catenary systems.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Sierra Northern Railway on this groundbreaking project” said Randy MacEwen, President and CEO of Ballard Power Systems. “This partnership underscores the versatility of our industry leading fuel cell technology and the critical role fuel cells can play in advancing sustainable rail solutions. We are excited to continue Ballard’s momentum in decarbonizing the North American freight rail sector.”

Kennan H. Beard III, President of Sierra Northern Railway commented, “Integrating Ballard’s fuel cell modules into our switching locomotives aligns with our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. This initiative not only enhances our operational efficiency but is also a pivotal step in California’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector.”

Trains powered by Ballard fuel cells offer safe and reliable zero-emission operations, including long range, fast refueling and flexible operation across a wide variety of routes and environmental conditions, acting as a 1:1 replacement of diesel engines on non-electrified rail lines. 

About Ballard Power Systems

Ballard Power Systems’ (NASDAQ: BLDP; TSX: BLDP) vision is to deliver fuel cell power for a sustainable planet. Ballard zero-emission PEM fuel cells are enabling electrification of mobility, including buses, commercial trucks, trains, marine vessels, and stationary power. To learn more about Ballard, please visit www.ballard.com.

This release contains forward-looking statements concerning anticipated product deliveries, customer deployments, and customer benefits and market adoption of our products. These forward-looking statements reflect Ballard’s current expectations as contemplated under section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Any such forward-looking statements are based on Ballard’s assumptions relating to its financial forecasts and expectations regarding its product development efforts, manufacturing capacity, and market demand.

These statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause Ballard’s actual results to be materially different, including general economic and regulatory changes, detrimental reliance on third parties, successfully achieving our business plans and achieving and sustaining profitability. For a detailed discussion of these and other risk factors that could affect Ballard’s future performance, please refer to Ballard’s most recent Annual Information Form. Readers should not place undue reliance on Ballard’s forward-looking statements and Ballard assumes no obligation to update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements, other than as required under applicable legislation.

About Sierra Northern Railway

Sierra Northern Railway (SERA) is the freight division of privately owned, Sierra Railroad Company. Sierra Railroad Company is also the principal owner of Sierra Energy Corporation, which has developed a proprietary waste- to- clean hydrogen technology: FastOx® gasification. Sierra Northern Railway currently operates approximately 75 miles of track in Northern California and 30 miles in Southern California through the heart of a number of the Golden State’s prime industrial areas, serving a wide variety of customers, and interchanging with both BNSF Railway and Union Pacific Railroad. http://sierranorthern.com

Further Information

Ballard Power Systems: Sumit Kundu – Manager, Investor Relations & Finance +1.604.453.3517 or investors@ballard.com

Sierra Northern Railway: Michael Faust – President and CEO, Railpower 916-335-5626 or mfaust@railpower.com

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SOURCE Ballard Power Systems Inc.